AI-generated material illustration; confirm actual products through specifications and physical samples.
Why quote comparison often fails
Two furniture quotes can look comparable while covering different products and services. One may include assembly and delivery while another stops at factory dispatch. One may price a defined finish and the other may use an allowance. A like-for-like comparison starts with a shared brief.
Build a comparison sheet
Use the same item codes, quantities, dimensions, materials, finish references, hardware, and room locations for each bidder. Separate one-time design or tooling costs from repeat item prices. Record currency, tax treatment, validity period, packaging, transport, installation, and payment assumptions.
| Comparison line | What to record |
|---|---|
| Product scope | Item code, dimensions, material, finish, quantity |
| Included services | Sampling, packing, delivery, assembly, installation |
| Exclusions | Site works, electrical, storage, taxes, special access |
| Schedule | Approval milestone, production window, dispatch, arrival |
| Change control | Cost and timing method for approved revisions |
How should buyers handle substitutions?
Ask the supplier to identify any substitute material or component clearly. Compare appearance, construction, maintenance, availability, cost, and schedule. A lower line price may create a higher project cost if it requires redesign or site modification.
Review evidence, not just totals
Check drawings, sample references, assembly details, and warranty or care information relevant to the project. Invite the operational team to review cleaning, repair access, and replacement parts. The lowest number is useful only when the scope is equivalent.
Fictional planning example
Fictional scenario for illustration, not a completed client project. A workplace buyer receives three quotes and discovers that only one includes delivery to the upper-floor loading point. The comparison sheet makes the difference visible before award.
Frequently asked questions
Should design fees be included in the unit price?
Show them as a separate line so repeat quantities and one-time work remain clear.
What if suppliers use different item names?
Map them to one buyer item code and compare the actual specification.
Request a comparable proposal
Review Simple Century’s product range and send the same brief for quotation. The stated lead-time range is 15–45 days depending on scope; confirm what the quoted schedule includes.